Imphal, February 17: Noted freedom fighter and Padma Bushan awardee Rani Gaidinliu was remembered today on her death anniversary at GM hall, Imphal.

The solemn function organised by different women bodies was attended by leaders of several remote and far off villages.

Presentation of the late leader's biography, floral tributes to her portrait and rendering of songs recounting her deeds were the main features of the observation.

Speaking on the ocassion as chief guest, MLA Henry Paote remarked that the noted freedom fighter is a pride of not only the Zeliangrongs but also of the whole Manipur.

The legislator observed that the freedom fighter strove to preserve the indigenous cultures of Zeliangrongs following christianisation and subsequent onslaught of alien culture.

Asserting that women have a significant place to preserve the culture and tradition of a nation and in its overall development, he called upon the people not to compromise under any circumstance in matters pertaining to women's rights and in the protection of our own identity.

The observation was graced by Prof Gangumei Kamei as president and Dean of Political Science, MU, Prof N Joykumar as guest of honour.

Born in an uneducated and underprivileged tribal family in a remote village of Manipur, the rare calibre and patriotism of Rani Gaidinliu ought not to be forgotten by the present and future generations, noted Prof Gangumei Kamei.

Born on January 26 of 1915, Gaidinliu brethed her last on February 17 of 1993.In recognition of her contribution to the freedom struggle, she was honoured with Padma Bushan and the title of Rani was conferred to her by Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru.

Moreover, Rani was also included among five freedom fighters of India in whose names were instituted the Stree Sati award conferred to noted women social workers of the country, mentioned Kamei.

Research works are now being undertaken by scholars of Germany, England and India on the life of Rani Gaidinliu, he added.

Lecturer of History Department, Imphal college, Lanmengrung observed that Gaidinliu worked as a social and religious reformer with the objective of safeguarding the native religion of Zeliangrong and to unite the different ethnic groups of Zeliangrong which later took a political dimension against British imperialism.

Prof Joykumar, noted that the main essence of today's observation was her undaunting struggle to preserve indigenous culture, identity and religion.

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